☯ TCM Properties
Dispels Wind and stops spasms; Removes superficial visual obstruction; Resolves toxins
Traditional Chinese Uses
She Tui (Periostracum Serpentis) is an animal-derived substance — the shed epidermal slough of non-venomous colubrid snakes, most commonly the beauty rat snake Elaphe taeniura. Sweet and salty with a neutral nature, entering the Liver channel, it dispels Wind and stops spasms, removes superficial visual obstruction (nebula/pterygium of the eye), and resolves toxicity. As a Wind-Damp/Wind-extinguishing agent it treats both internal Wind and Wind in the skin.
Classic uses include childhood convulsions, seizures and tetanic spasms; Wind rashes, itching, urticaria and stubborn sores including scabies and hard-to-heal boils (often applied topically); and superficial corneal opacities affecting vision. It is used in small doses, decocted (about 1.5-3 g) or, more commonly, powdered. The source species (Elaphe taeniura and related rat snakes) are widely distributed and not CITES-listed, but wild-collection pressures make farmed or reputably sourced material preferable.
Botanical Description
She Tui (also She Pi) is an animal-derived substance, not a plant: the shed epidermal skin (slough) of various non-venomous Chinese colubrid snakes, most commonly Elaphe taeniura Cope, Elaphe carinata (Günther), and Zaocys dhumnades (Cantor) (Colubridae). The slough is a thin, translucent, silvery-grey to pale yellow, semi-cylindrical, paper-like membrane often retaining the imprint of the original scale pattern, with conspicuous diamond-, hexagonal-, or oval-shaped scale outlines along the body and complete head and eye-cap impressions when intact. Sloughs are collected entire from snake habitats or breeding facilities, freed of dirt, and sun-dried; pieces are brittle, slightly lustrous, and odorless. In TCM, She Tui is used to dispel wind, relieve spasm, and remove screens (eye opacities); it is included in formulas for childhood convulsions, tetanus, and pruritic skin conditions. Sourcing should respect wildlife protection laws.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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